To Outwit Them All keeps you on the edge of your seat in a thrilling novel of espionage, love and intrigue. Set in a city torn between independence and loyalty to the Crown, Betty Floyd brings readers inside the life of women during the American Revolution. A real look at ordinary citizens risking it all to do extraordinary things. A must read for any Culper Spy Ring fan and lover of suspense.
- Margo Arceri, Culper Spy Ring Historian and Founder of Tri-Spy Tours.
The most intriguing, edge-of-your-seat historical fiction I’ve read in a long while. Wirgau’s authentic for the period writing, impeccable research, and great attention to historical detail brought daily life during the Revolutionary War and the Culper Spy Ring vividly to life. Through To Outwit Them All I walked the British occupied streets of New York City through a Patriot spy’s eyes, ever aware that one wrong move could be her last. Once begun, I could not put this book down. Brilliant.
--Cathy Gohlke, Christy Hall of Fame author of This Promised Land
Peggy Wirgau has done it again! Her latest novel, set during the American Revolution, tells the story of one young woman, Agent 355, who overcame a disability and her own fears to make a difference. I literally could not put this book down, staying up much too late each evening to read just one more chapter. The fast-paced storyline and well-drawn characters were that compelling. To Outwit Them All is a beautifully-crafted, well-researched, and inspiring story. It is a must-read!
--Taryn R. Hutchison, award-winning author of A Cold War Trilogy
Set in the City of New York in 1779- 1780, To Outwit Them All is the story of Betty Floyd, a clever and alluring patriot spy who cavorts with British generals to learn their military secrets. She draws none other than Major John André into her spell. Or is Major André deceiving Betty? This thrilling novel combines the sweep of history with the intimacy of a woman’s perspective. Fans of the television drama Turn: Washington’s Spies take note.
—Katherine Kirkpatrick, author of Trouble’s Daughter, Redcoats and Petticoats, and To Chase the Glowing Hours
To Outwit Them All is a captivating and action-packed tale based on the history of the Culper Spy Ring that aided the Patriot cause, its members risking their lives in enemy territory--British-occupied New York City. Wirgau brings a fresh (and much needed) female perspective on a conflict that could not have been resolved without the contribution of women at all levels of society, many of whose identities or full roles have been lost to history. In the character of Betty Floyd, Wirgau puts forth a candidate for 355 ("lady" in Culper code) and animates the world of espionage in New York during the American Revolution. Deftly navigating two worlds, Betty's conversations with her contact and cousin Robert Townsend are so persuasive and lively that one will be inspired to learn more about the Culper Spy Ring and their crucial role in the Revolution.
--Justinne Lake-Jedzinak, PhD, Director of Education and Public Programs at Raynham Hall Museum
Peggy Wirgau’s novel To Outwit Them All introduces the reader to the life of Socialite Betty Floyd, who becomes the only female spy member of the highly secretive group known as the Culper Ring during the American Revolution. This story is a captivating page-turner as Betty maneuvers her way through the British-occupied New York City social scene, risking her safety to gather relevant information for George Washington’s troops. It is truly an enjoyable read.
-- Jeanette Minniti, author of The Only Way Home.
To Outwit Them All is a meticulous portrayal of life during the British occupation of New York City during the Revolutionary War. Through Betty's eyes, we see the worst of humanity in the inhumane treatment of American prisoners while British officers and the city's wealthy Loyalist class hold opulent balls and parties. Welcomed into elite society, Betty seeks to use those connections to serve the American cause; she enters the dangerous underworld of the city's spies. A single mistake would mean imprisonment or, worse, death.
Vividly presented, it makes the reader feel as if we are there, reliving the years of the war. It reawakened my love for the period of occupation and the brave residents who risked their lives for American independence.
--Karen Quinones, Historian and author of Theodosia Burr: Teen Eyewitness to the Founding of the New Nation
To Outwit Them All is a dive into an intense period of American history peopled with fierce Patriots and dedicated Loyalists surrounded by the might of the British army. The story weaves around the life of Betty Floyd—whom many believe to be the illusive 355 of Washington’s Culper Ring—and her work as a spy for the Continental Army. Author Wirgau includes many historical figures and events throughout the novel, drawing the reader into the life and times of the Revolutionary War. A must-read for all fans of early American historical novels!
—Pegg Thomas, multi-award-winning author of Path to Freedom series
Author Peggy Wirgau draws the reader into her fascinating novel, To Outwit Them All, with compelling characters, inspired by true events. Set during the American Revolution, this poignant story expertly blends conflict, romance, and cultural elements like no other. Steeped in impeccable research and riddled in suspense until the end, Wirgau’s vivid imagery adds depth to the story, making it a must read.
-- Becky Van Vleet, Award-winning author of Unintended Hero